Several behavioral traits relevant for alcoholism are controlled by ɣ2 subunit containing GABA_A receptors on dopamine neurons in mice.

ABSTRACT: The risk factors for developing alcohol addiction include impulsivity, high sensitivity to the rewarding action of ethanol, and low sensitivity to its sedative and intoxicating effects. Genetic variation in GABA_A receptor subunits, including the ɣ2 subunit (Gabrg2), affects the risk for developing alcoholism. Alcohol directly potentiates GABA_A receptors and activates the mesolimbic dopamine system. Here, we deleted Gabrg2 selectively in dopamine cells of adult mice. The deletion resulted in elevated firing of dopamine neurons and made them less sensitive to drugs acting at GABA_A receptors. At the behavioral level, the deletion increased exploratory behavior and augmented both correct and incorrect responding in the go/no-go task, a test often used to assay

SUBMITTER: Stojakovic A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5957272 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature